Mavericks Rookie Cooper Flagg Sidelined by Illness, Misses First NBA Game

Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg has been ruled out of Wednesday's home game against the New York Knicks due to an illness, marking the first game he will miss in his NBA career. The No. 1 overall pick was added to the injury report Wednesday morning and did not participate in the team's shootaround. Flagg, 18, had started every game for the 4-11 Mavericks despite previously dealing with left shoulder soreness and a sprained right thumb that required a splint. He is currently averaging 15.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. Naji Marshall and Klay Thompson are expected to see increased opportunities in his absence, and Flagg is considered day-to-day.